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3D-Printed Magnetic Pen Diagnoses Parkinson’s with 96% Accuracy in Pilot Study

The low-cost, self-powered device translates handwriting tremors into magnetically generated signals for AI analysis to support accessible early screening.

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Overview

  • A small pilot involving 16 participants, including three with Parkinson’s, saw the pen distinguish patients from healthy controls with an average accuracy of 96.22%.
  • A soft magnetoelastic silicone tip and ferrofluid ink convert subtle on-paper and in-air handwriting motions into voltage signals without external power.
  • Recorded signals are processed by a one-dimensional convolutional neural network that identifies characteristic tremor patterns linked to Parkinson’s.
  • Engineered for affordability and ease of use, the pen aims to broaden diagnostic reach in lower-income and resource-limited regions.
  • Researchers stress that larger, more diverse trials are needed to confirm accuracy and assess integration into telemedicine platforms.